Your Health Team: Womens

Primary Care PhysicianPrimary care refers to general medical care for routine or chronic illnesses, preventive care and minor injuries. The primary care physician is usually the first health-care professional a patient sees; the physician provides a referral to a specialist if necessary. The primary care physician, who typically works in private or group practice, may collaborate with other physicians as well as physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners. This allows a patient to see a familiar backup physician or other health professional if the primary care physician is unavailable

Obstetrician-GynecologistA gynecologist specializes in the female reproductive system (uterus, ovaries and vagina). Gynecologists treat and diagnose diseases of the reproductive system (such as cervical cancer), offer advice on birth control, evaluate menstrual-cycle and menopause issues, and perform surgeries (including hysterectomies). Women who are 18 (or younger, if sexually active) regularly see a gynecologist for a physical exam of the uterus, vagina and pelvis, and may also see these specialists if they experience any issues in this areas. All gynecologists are also trained as obstetricians (OBs), overseeing care of pregnant women, delivering babies and providing expertise in reproductive issues. OBs provide obstetric care during the prenatal period by monitoring fetal growth and health. Obstetricians diagnose and treat high-risk pregnancies, including complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia (pregnancy-induced hypertension) and placenta previa (when the placenta is attached to the uterine wall). They also can focus on infertility treatments, including hormone treatments and in vitro fertilization.

Reproductive EndocrinologistsReproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) is a field of medicine that deals with reproductive disorders and hormone function. Reproductive endocrinologists, also known as REI specialists, are OB-GYNs trained to evaluate and treat infertility, in both women and men. They may also treat problems with menstruation, menopause, hormonal imbalances, miscarriages and sexual function. Patients of all ages can consult with reproductive endocrinologists.

EndocrinologistAn endocrinologist is a physician trained in diseases that affect the endocrine system, a complex group of hormone-producing glands. Endocrinologists treat conditions in which hormones are imbalanced or cause complications, including diabetes, menopause, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, hypertension, infertility and more.

CardiologistA cardiologist is a medical doctor with additional training in heart disorders. Cardiologists diagnose and treat patients of all ages for congenital heart defects, heart failure, coronary artery disease and other heart problems. Women may see a cardiologist for screenings and treatment because heart disease and stroke are major women’s health risks. Cardiologists are usually associated with a hospital, but they do not typically do surgery; surgeries are performed by cardiac surgeons.

DermatologistA dermatologist is a physician specializing in skin diseases and related issues involving the skin, scalp, hair and nails. This specialty includes medical and surgical aspects of these diseases. Dermatologists treat acne, psoriasis, eczema, skin cancer and other common skin conditions, and may also be trained in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections and laser surgery. Some dermatologists also perform more complex cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction and face lifts.

OncologistAn oncologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care of patients with cancer. Treatments can include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery, as well as palliative care for patients with terminal cancer. Oncologists are trained to diagnose specific types of cancer and to prescribe appropriate treatment. Oncologists also keep abreast of the latest advances in diagnoses and treatment. Diagnostic tools include computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams and blood tests. Some oncologists may have a subspecialty, such as breast cancer or surgical oncology (surgical cancer treatment).

Gynecologic OncologistA gynecologic oncologist is a physician/surgeon specializing in treating cancers of the female reproduction system, including ovarian, endometrial, vaginal, cervical and uterine cancer. Gynecologic oncologists are trained as obstetrician/gynecologists (ob-gyns), and then receive additional training in female reproductive cancer and cancer treatment, including radiation therapy and surgery. These specialists perform biopsies and other surgeries and prescribe noninvasive cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation

PsychologistPsychologists are professionals who focus on patients’ mental and emotional health. They provide therapy but not prescriptions for medication. They typically are not physicians but usually hold a Ph.D. or other advanced academic degree. Patients may see a psychologist for a variety of issues, such as eating disorders, anxiety or depression, which is more common in women than men. Treatment options can include counseling or psychotherapy. The two principal branches of psychology are applied psychology, which refers to clinical practitioners who deal with patients, and research or experimental psychology, which involves the scholarly study and/or teaching about the human mind (such as cognition and behavior).

PsychiatristPsychiatrists are board-certified physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental disorders. Patients may see a psychiatrist for a variety of issues, such as anxiety or depression, which is more common in women than men. Diagnostic tools can include patient history and physical exams, laboratory tests and brain imaging scans, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication – usually in conjunction with other treatment options, such as psychotherapy – and often work in tandem with neurologists, talk therapists and counselors.

PodiatristPodiatrists, also known as doctors of podiatric medicine (DPM), focus on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle and lower leg. Conditions can range from bunions and heel spurs to congenital abnormalities and ankle and foot injuries. Podiatrists also can diagnose and treat foot ailments related to diabetes. Up to 70% of people with diabetes have nervous-system damage. When the feet are affected, the resulting numbness can lead to injury, foot ulcers and even amputations. Diagnostic tools include X-rays and laboratory tests, followed by treatments such as medication, physical therapy, orthotics, surgery and casts.

RheumatologistRheumatologists practice a branch of internal medicine or pediatrics that focuses on joint, muscle and bone disorders, including autoimmune diseases. Some of the most common conditions rheumatologists treat include arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, lupus and back pain. Diagnostic procedures can include patient history and physical examinations, X-rays and blood tests. In addition, many rheumatologists conduct research.

Sports Medicine SpecialistSports medicine is a field of medicine that treats injuries related to sports or athletics. Most commonly, its practitioners are orthopedic surgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialists and primary care physicians. Although most injuries are to the musculoskeletal system, sports medicine specialists may also treat patients with exercise-induced asthma and other medical conditions. They may manage injury-induced pain through medication, surgery, injections or therapy. Sports medicine specialists also focus on injury prevention by examining athletes before they participate in sports to assess their physical condition, as well as by educating athletes, trainers and coaches on exercise practices, hydration, nutrition and medication. Sports medicine specialists may collaborate with related specialists, such as physical therapists, nutritionists and athletic trainers.

DietitianA registered dietitian (R.D.) completes a course of study and passes a national exam to help patients use food to prevent and treat disease and maintain good health. R.D.s can help develop modified diets and educate individuals on good nutritional habits to improve symptoms of chronic conditions.